Published on: September 17, 2025, 12:11h.
Updated on: September 17, 2025, 12:21h.
- Minnesota Governor Tim Walz aims for a third term
- Walz faced defeat in the 2024 presidential election alongside Kamala Harris
- Walz confirms he will not pursue a presidential run in 2028
Tim Walz, the Democratic Governor of Minnesota, has announced his intention to run for a third term. The former vice presidential candidate expressed on Tuesday that he feels there are still vital tasks to accomplish in St. Paul.
A former member of the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2019, Walz first became governor in the 2018 election. Notably, Minnesota is one of the few states in the U.S. without restrictions on gubernatorial term limits.
“I’ve witnessed how we come together during our toughest times. This year has tested us profoundly. I remain heartbroken and furious about the lives lost to gun violence. It’s essential that we unite and maintain hope because I know what we can achieve together,” Walz stated while kicking off his campaign for 2026.
“I have always aimed to do what’s best for Minnesota, and I will continue to fight against the chaos, corruption, and cruelty emanating from Washington,” he added.
2026 Election Odds
Currently, Walz is the leading candidate in the betting markets for Minnesota’s upcoming gubernatorial election in 2026. As the only Democrat to announce his candidacy thus far, betting markets indicate an 86% likelihood that he will secure a third term.
On the Republican side, six candidates, including state representative Kristin Robbins (R-Twin Cities), have thrown their hats into the ring.
Despite his loss in the 2024 presidential race alongside Kamala Harris, Walz’s name continues to surface among potential Democratic candidates for the 2028 election. However, betting markets indicate he has less than a 1% chance of being the nominee. Walz has reiterated that he will not seek the party’s candidacy to succeed President Donald Trump.
Portraying himself as the “Midwest Dad,” Walz’s campaign touted achievements in “historic educational investment, a focus on clean energy, and the creation of well-paying jobs.”
“I am dedicated to serving and continuing the progress we’ve made. We’ve achieved significant advancements in our state, yet there is more to be done. I am committed to this fight— and I need your support,” Walz emphasized.
Critics, however, argue that Walz has negatively impacted the state. They cite his response to unrest following George Floyd’s death and a $300 million fraud case related to COVID-19 relief funds that occurred under his administration.
“Walz has proven to be ineffective. While he talks about a robust economy, exceptional schools, and safe communities, the only notable fact for Minnesotans is that he permitted the nation’s largest taxpayer-funded COVID-19 fraud to happen during his tenure,” remarked US House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-MN).
2028 Presidential Prospects
Although we’re only partway through Trump’s second term, betting markets are already forecasting the 2028 election results.
Currently, Vice President JD Vance leads the betting odds with an implied chance of 30%. California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) follows with 20%, and Democratic Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York holds third place with 6%. Former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg (D) and Secretary of State Marco Rubio (R) each stand at 5%.